Syria - Assad: is the iron fist weakening? (part 2)

The Assad family has ruled Syria with an iron fist for some 40 years. Now, however, its grip on power is weakening. Weeks of protests have pressured the regime into lifting a 48-year-old state of emergency, but activists are not convinced the regime wants reform. Laura Baines and guests discuss what might be next for Syria.

Sadek SALEM, Syrian Activist

Dr Elie HATEM, Professor of international relations, Free faculty of law and economics in Paris

Host of the show since 2010, this Franco-American was RFI’s West Africa bureau chief from 1995 to 1998. He plays it straight on all issues, except for les Bleus in rugby and ice hockey’s New York Rangers!

ANNETTE YOUNGPresenter

Originally from Australia, she is a senior journalist and presenter who has reported from Europe, Asia and the Middle East. When not fronting the network’s show on women’s issues, she is a news anchor and an international affairs commentator.

CYRIL VANIERJournalist

He joined France 24 for ten years, from 2006 to 2016. After several years of reporting on major international stories, he presented the news and The Debate on both the French and English channels.